Dispersed camping at Sexton Pond offers primitive forest sites that require complete self-sufficiency. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing nights. The Sabine National Forest encompasses over 160,000 acres of East Texas woodland with sandy soil conditions that affect vehicle access during wet weather.
What to do
Wildlife observation: Sexton Pond Dispersed camping provides opportunities for spotting local wildlife. One camper at Sexton Pond Dispersed reports, "I got lucky enough had the place to myself for almost 2 weeks, give or take the few groups that tried to tough the biting fish."
Freshwater access: The natural spring at Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest provides reliable water for visitors. According to a camper, "There is a natural spring that runs on side of the road about a half mile from the campsite. It has been piped in for easy access."
Foraging: Certain seasons offer foraging opportunities in the surrounding forest areas. However, seasonal limitations apply as one visitor notes, "If you're into foraging, this is definitely not the place in the winter months. There is plenty of broken trees to use for fire wood."
What campers like
Solitude: Many campers appreciate the isolation available at free camping near Sabine National Forest. One visitor at Sexton Pond Dispersed shares, "Down a hard packed gravel road. A few potholes but nothing major. Nice spot in the trees. There are a few fire pits spread out. We were the only ones here."
Natural water sources: The natural spring in Forest Road 380 draws locals and campers alike. A visitor explains, "There is however, a natural spring that is piped just as you enter FR380. Locals come here to fill water. It's very fresh and refreshing."
Extended stays: For those seeking longer-term dispersed camping options, Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest allows extended visits. According to a camper, "The stay here is 30 days. No bathroom. No trash pick up. No water hook ups."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region can experience extreme weather fluctuations. One camper at Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest reports, "The temp drops quickly during the winter months so be prepared. You do not need any kind of permit to camp here."
Road conditions: Access to dispersed camping areas can be challenging after precipitation. A camper notes, "The road is fine. A little hard to get through if it's wet. The spots to stay in have very rutted roads. Pretty easy to take just about anything down it."
Cell service: Be prepared for limited or no connectivity in these remote locations. One visitor at Upland Island Wilderness Area warns, "Let me start of by saying there is ZERO cell service. We might have been able to set our phones down and it get ONE Bar, but as soon as you pick it up it's gone."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose camping spots wisely when visiting with children. At Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest, a camper observes, "There are about 5 camp areas. a few of them are group sites. Very large and spacious."
Activity planning: Free camping near Sabine National Forest requires bringing your own entertainment. A visitor to Bouton Lake Camp suggests, "The forest is great to explore. There is a natural spring that runs on side of the road about a half mile from the campsite."
Time management: Consider fishing schedules for optimal results. One camper at Sexton Pond Dispersed advises, "I will share a tip. They seem to sit dormant at 10pm and 3am for a hour each. No biting. Please clean behind as you found it."
Tips from RVers
Access assessment: Evaluate road conditions carefully before attempting RV access. A camper at Forest Road 380 Kisatchi National Forest notes, "The drive there was beautiful. Getting to the camp site was pretty straightforward through google Maps. You can pull ur vehicle right up your camp site."
Site spacing: RV campers appreciate the room to spread out in certain areas. At Sexton Pond Dispersed, a visitor mentions, "If looking to be near a campground but still out on your own then this is the place."
Preparation requirements: No facilities means complete self-sufficiency. A visitor to Forest Road 380 explains, "All in all, this place is so secluded that no one drives out here and it's 100% peaceful. I will definitely return to this spot."
